ID H0236

Expands eligible uses of the water management account to include feasibility studies for projects that conserve or increase water supply, improve drought resiliency, address water sustainability, or support flood management.

Adds managed aquifer recharge sites above Milner Dam to the list of large water infrastructure projects eligible for state funding, including identification, study, and construction to benefit existing water rights and meet state settlement agreement commitments.

Requires that large water infrastructure projects receiving funds from the account must consider and protect all existing water rights and account for effects on water quality, fish and wildlife, recreation, hydropower, and other water uses providing economic and community benefits.

Establishes that preference for fund distribution shall be given to projects with at least 50% matching funds from parties other than the state, with the board determining the value of in-kind contributions.

Expands legislative reporting requirements to include a comprehensive list of all projects considered, detailed statements of funded projects including how they meet account purposes, and anticipated future funding requests, to be included in the board's budget report to the joint finance-appropriation committee.